Note: This is a seattlepi.com reader blog. It is not written or edited by the P-I. The authors are solely responsible for content. E-mail us at newmedia@seattlepi.com if you consider a post inappropriate..

Arizonans’ interest is in keeping cool, even more than keeping green. Cement is gaining favor because it holds up to the harsh sun, and retains cool air better than a wood wall. Cement comes with an environmental cost of its own.

Carlton’s article focuses on makers of materials — cementitious fiber siding, foam insulation, and recycled rubber shingles — who are doing well despite the reported softening of house sales. The companies are Honeywell International, James Hardie Industries, PlastPro doors and Carlisle Co.

It is apparently the higher-income buyers who will pay the premium for “green” home building materials. Weyerhaeuser-owned Quandrant Homes, here in the Northwest, says that only about four percent of its buyers are willing to pay an extra $2,500 for energy-saving features. Carlton says homes with several green features typically cost three to five percent more to build than a conventional home.

Note: This is a seattlepi.com reader blog. It is not written or edited by the P-I. The authors are solely responsible for content. E-mail us at newmedia@seattlepi.com if you consider a post inappropriate..